God Is Just Not Fair by Jennifer Rothschild

Just like her friend who set a place at the table for Jesus, Jennifer Rothschild tells us how God is always with us, even in the midst of blindness, be it physical or spiritual. In God is Just Not Fair, this Christian writer and speaker, blind since her teens, honestly shares her own battle with depression which overtook her in midlife. Jennifer questioned her faith and the fairness and presence of God.  Using realistic illustrations from her own life and work, she shares scenarios that all can identify with.  Mentioning those who have lost spouses or who suffer from terminal illness, Jennifer acknowledges that some may not sense God’s presence. But she advises, “..sometimes we have to trust God is there, even when we can’t feel him.”   And there is her son’s persistent request for a Nintendo.  Jennifer notes, “We can appeal to God about anything because with Him all things are possible and He hears us.”  She adds, however, that God wants “to show us the difference between what is possible and what is best.”  This book is arranged in a clear and engaging style with chapter headings such as “Compassionate Inactivity” and “If You had Been Here.” The pages are filled with pertinent scripture verses.  Known for her coffee and “fresh ground faith,” Jennifer shares a cup of inspiration with friends in this book.  God is Just Not Fair is a pleasure to read, and to savor, and to learn from.  I received a complimentary, review copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and the words expressed here are my own.

Distortion by Terri Blackstock

Distortion by Terri Blackstock

To this mystery fan, Terri Blackstock’s novel, Distortion, scores high in the suspense category but has a disappointing conclusion.  The story begins with action. Juliet Cole’s doctor husband is murdered in a drive by shooting at a rental facility. Juliet’s grief is portrayed as physical, emotional and very intense.  As the investigation begins, she must come to grips with the possibility of her husband’s secret life. Her family provides support for Juliet and her two sons.  Her two sisters, an attorney and a PI, investigate the murder, discovering pertinent clues and a possible suspect.  A master of twists and turns, the author takes the reader on an exciting trip that involves threatening phone calls, kidnapping and more murder. I could not put the book down. But, then, the conclusion came too soon and too abruptly.   Juliet’s emotions, so explicitly described in the beginning, were quickly summed up. Her feelings that led to an important family decision were never explained.  Since Distortion is part of a series, or family saga, I can assume that Juliet’s story will be continued in another volume. But, as a reader so immersed in this situation in this novel, I expected more closure.  On a positive note, the Christian message is strong throughout the book.  Overall, this is a deftly written novel, an enjoyable read, but too many loose ends were left dangling. I know, I should read the next volume.  I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to  write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.